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Zesty Creamy Mac-Daddi-Roni Pasta Salad

Zesty Creamy Mac-Daddi-Roni Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

Experience the refreshing taste of summer with this Zesty Creamy Mac-Daddi-Roni Pasta Salad, combining zesty flavors with creamy textures.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Can use gluten-free pasta if required.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitution: Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Ensure it’s smooth for a uniform dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Adjust amount for less tang if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Substitution: White wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Omit if preferring a sugar-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substitute with fresh minced garlic for a stronger taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Omit for a milder flavor.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Diced Bell Peppers Use any color variant for visual appeal.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Substitution: Green onions for milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Use a cheese blend for complexity.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives Omit for a more classic salad.
  • 1 cup Cooked and Crumbled Bacon Omit for vegetarian version.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Substitute with chives for variation.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Pot
  • Strainer

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine Pasta and Dressing: Gently add the cooked macaroni to the prepared dressing. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in that rich, zesty flavor.
  4. Fold in the Veggies: Carefully incorporate diced bell peppers, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced black olives, and crumbled bacon into the pasta.
  5. Chill to Meld Flavors: Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra paprika for added flavor.

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